Self-Killing and Moral Duty in the Teachings of Gautama Buddha’s Principles

Abstract

In this article, I analyse the moral dilemma of self-killing in the context of Gautama Buddha’s teachings, emphasizing the connection between human existence, suffering, and moral obligation. Buddhist philosophy, in my opinion, offers a profound and sympathetic foundation for comprehending this problem. The study starts by examining the First Precept, which forbids taking another person’s life, and the ethical basis of non-harm (ahiʿmsā). I then examine the function of intention (cetanā) in moral assessment, demonstrating that actions are evaluated based on their mental states as well as their results. The article explores the idea of pain (dukkha) in more detail and makes the case that self-killing frequently stems from the misconception that suffering is something that can be avoided by dying. Buddhist teachings, on the other hand, place a strong emphasis on how consciousness and wisdom may transform suffering. I also go over classic situations from early Buddhist writings, emphasizing the significance of context and the intricacy of their interpretation. I also discuss the need of compassion, care, and ethical duty, demonstrating how Buddhist ethics promotes a helpful and nonjudgmental approach to people who are in mental discomfort. The study highlights the applicability of Buddhist insights in contemporary settings by tying these classic teachings to current debates on suicide and mental health. In general, I contend that the Buddha’s teachings lead people toward insight, healing, and liberation rather than escape from life.